Fair enough. Seems like you only really did the touristy stuff. there’s loads more than that. Non-Gaudi? Art galleries, museums, old churches/temples, the history of the Spanish Civil war, Columbus, the Gothic Quarter, the football stadium (rogerredhat; is Camp Nou awesome, or what?!), the markets, loads of stuff. And the countryside surrounding the city is a fantastic place to ride a bike. BarÃelona is also a centre for design, and architecture, and host several international film and music events every year. Very exciting and lively, yet relaxed as well.
And for a major city, it never seemed too crowded, even at rush-hour. Living in London, that’s something I really appreciated.
Last time I went, I stayed with a family. Got to see daily life from the perspective of residents. Perhaps gives a better insight. I can understand some of the animosity towards some tourists, who get drunk and lary, and cause grief, like in any touristy place. But most of the people I met were very friendly and helpful. I didn’t feel nearly as wary as I’ve done in some other big cities. On the whole, I’d say its a great place.